Marion Dural Cotton
October 22, 1970 - November 21, 2023
On Tuesday (November 28, 2023), the Pearl River County MS Sheriff’s Office assisted the U.S. Marshalls with apprehending 30 year-old James Bearrie Hylton, a wanted fugitive who was wanted by the U.S. Marshalls for a Federal Probation Violation out of North Carolina and malicious wounding, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and discharging a firearm into an occupied dwelling out of Henry County Sheriff’s Office in Virginia.
Investigations determined Hylton to be residing at a home on Laser Lane in Carriere, Ms. Hylton was taken into custody at the residence without incident. Hylton did attempt to provide law enforcement with a fake Mississippi ID card.
During the search of the residence subsequent to arrest, 229 grams of methamphetamine were located in a bedroom, and a .45 caliber handgun was discovered hidden inside a trashcan. Hylton was charged with aggravated trafficking a controlled substance and a felon in possession of a weapon.
The following has been issued by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office
As we gear up for property tax season, we want to let you know about the essential details. Here are π important things you need to know about the annual property tax assessment:
1️⃣ Payment Due Date: Don't forget, property taxes must be paid by December 31, 2023. But here's the good news – if your payment is postmarked by December 31, 2023, you won't incur any interest charges.
2️⃣ Payment Options: We highly encourage everyone to use our convenient online payment system if possible. Just visit www.wpso.la.gov, click the Divisions tab, and select "Pay Taxes Online." You can also go to http://snstaxpayments.com/washington. However, if you prefer in-person or mail payments, here are the details:
In-Person Locations:
Regular Mail:
Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, Attention: Property Tax Division, 1002 Main Street, Franklinton, LA 70438
Overnight Mail:
Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, Attention: Property Tax Division, 1002 Main Street, Franklinton, LA 70438
Make checks payable to Washington Parish Tax Collector and include your Assessment # on your check.
3️⃣ Not Receiving a Tax Notice: If you don't receive your tax notice by December 15, 2023, please give our Sheriff’s Office Property Tax Division a call at 985-839-3434.
4️⃣ Assessment Details: While we send out the tax assessment notices, the Assessor’s Office determines the value of your property. If you have any questions about your assessment, don't hesitate to call the Assessor’s Office at 985-839-7815.
5️⃣ Updating Your Mailing Address: If you need to update your mailing address, please contact the Assessor’s Office at 985-839-7815.
Thank you for your cooperation, and let's make this property tax season a smooth one! If you have any more questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out.
Sincerely,
Randy “Country” Seal, Sheriff
Washington Parish Sheriff's Office
District Attorney (Interim) Collin Sims reports that on November 21, 2023, District Judge Ellen Creel sentenced Quanterrius McNeal, age 26 and of Angie, to life in prison. McNeal was found guilty following a jury trial on May 9, 2023. McNeal was sentenced as a habitual violent offender due to his prior convictions for aggravated battery and second-degree battery, simple burglary and purse snatching.
In May of 2022, an officer was making rounds in a unit at Rayburn Correctional Center. While walking past the cell of the victim and the defendant, he observed a large amount of blood on the victim’s shirt. Both inmates were taken out of the cell and when officers searched the cell, a homemade sharpened weapon was found in the defendant’s bunk.
Surveillance footage captured the incident. It showed the defendant approach the unsuspecting victim from behind, and begin stabbing him with the weapon multiple times in the head and neck area. The victim was fortunately able to fight back enough to stave off further attack. The victim suffered multiple significant lacerations as a result of the attack.
The case was investigated by Rayburn Correctional Center. Assistant District Attorneys Luke Lancaster and Allie Serpas prosecuted the case.
The following alert has been issued by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office.
We want to keep you informed and safe from potential scams! Some members have reported receiving suspicious calls from numbers that appear to be linked to Washington-St. Tammany Electric Cooperative, Inc. The person on the other end of the line, who goes by the name James (or any other name), is trying to deceive you. They recently used the number 985-333-1592, but please be aware that this can change.
π Here's what you need to know:
Let's all stay vigilant and look out for each other. If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to reach out to us directly through our official channels. Your trust means the world to us, and we're here to protect it.
Stay safe, WST community!
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office is asking the public's assistance in identifying the suspect of a simple robbery and simple battery. Sheriff Daniel Edwards says on Tuesday (November 28, 2023) at approximately 3:45 PM, the subject pictured approached the victim while he was standing outside of his residence on Northwood Crossing Drive in Hammond. The subject told the victim he needed help, and thereafter pushed the victim back inside of his residence while punching him in the face. The subject demand money, and the victim surrendered an unknown amount of cash to the suspect.
Before fleeing the residence, the suspect grabbed the victim's cell phone from his hand. The suspect then left in what is possibly a gold colored sedan.
Sheriff Edwards asks anyone with information regarding the identity of the suspect to contact Detective Dale Athmann at 985-902-2032, OR if you wish to remain anonymous, please call Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s anonymous tip line at 1.800.554.5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip!
Curtis Penton (age 44 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.
Brent West (age 37 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Dedrick Varnado (age 44 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Armed Robbery by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
John Forbes (age 28 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs/Ecstasy, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs (2 counts), and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Ronald Willette (age 53 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked In For Court
Clinton Roux (age 22 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked In From Court
Emmanuel Brister (age 23 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Bond Surrender and Failure to Appear (2 counts). Bond set at $10000.00.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Detectives from the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office (WPSO) Drug Task Force, in coordination with the U.S. Marshals Service New Orleans Office and the Rayburn Correctional Center K-9 unit, successfully located and apprehended 37 year-old Brent Allen West, who had recently evaded capture in Arkansas and was a wanted fugitive.
The U.S. Marshals Service New Orleans Office contacted the WPSO Drug Task Force on Tuesday (November 28, 2023) with information regarding the whereabouts of Brent Allen West. West was wanted in Arkansas on multiple charges, including illegal narcotics violations, theft, and was also a registered sex offender who had crossed state lines. Authorities had reason to believe that West had fled to Washington Parish to evade capture.
During the course of the investigation into West's location, it was determined that he was hiding at a residence on Nash Harper Warner Road in Washington Parish. In response to this information, the Rayburn Correctional Center K-9 unit was called in to assist in the operation to capture West. Shortly after 9 PM on Tuesday night, the law enforcement team successfully apprehended Brent Allen West without incident at the Nash Harper Warner Road residence. West was discovered hiding in a bedroom and was taken into custody.
The apprehension of Brent Allen West represents a significant victory for law enforcement agencies committed to ensuring public safety and bringing fugitives to justice. The successful operation demonstrates the dedication and coordination among various agencies in pursuing individuals who pose a threat to communities both locally and across state lines.
“Brent Allen West is now in custody and will be facing the charges against him in Arkansas. I would like to extend my gratitude to our WPSO Drug Task Force, the U.S. Marshals Service New Orleans Office, and the Rayburn Correctional Center K-9 unit for their invaluable assistance in this operation,” stated Sheriff Randy “Country” Seal.
Pokey, Spikey Plants in Louisiana, Part 2: Palmettos and Prickly Pear Cacti
My last article discussed several types of prickly plants that are native to Louisiana, including several yuccas and an agave.
The next two plants are in the palm family. Dwarf palmetto (Sabal minor) is closely related to the cabbage or sabal palm. Leaves of dwarf palmetto are similar to those of cabbage palm, but dwarf palmetto doesn’t form the tall stem or trunk that cabbage palm does. Stems often remain belowground. Unlike most plants discussed in this series, dwarf palmetto tends to grow in wet areas and is often seen growing as an understory plant in moist woods. It’s found in most parishes of Louisiana. Individual leaves, including the leaf stem (petiole), can reach 5 to 8 feet long.
Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) looks similar to dwarf palmetto, but the petioles of saw palmetto have spines along the edges, while dwarf palmetto petioles do not. Also, saw palmetto forms aboveground stems that can become quite thick, though they often grow along the ground. Saw palmetto tends to grow on drier sites than dwarf palmetto does and is not as common in Louisiana.
Bees visit dwarf palmetto and saw palmetto flowers, and wildlife eat the fruit. Fruit of saw palmetto is sometimes harvested to make an herbal supplement.
One might be surprised to learn that several species of prickly pear cacti are considered native to Louisiana. These include eastern prickly pear (Opuntia humifusa; AKA low prickly pear or Devil’s-tongue), twistspine prickly pear (O. macrorhiza), cockspur prickly pear (O. pusilla), and erect prickly pear (O. stricta).
Eastern prickly pear appears to be the most widely distributed in Louisiana. It grows on very well-drained, sunny sites and tends to be wider than tall, typically not growing much more than 18 inches high. Flowers are yellow and sometimes have a red center. The plant not only has obvious, large spines on the pads but also has smaller, hair-like spines called glochids on both pads and fruit.
The fruit of prickly pear cacti is called “tuna” in Spanish. I had a Peruvian apartment-mate who shared some with me one time. (I can’t say I remember how it tasted.) The fruit is most often cultivated from a prickly pear species called Barbary fig (O. ficus-indica), but the fruit of eastern prickly pear is also edible. Young pads can also be eaten. As food, they’re called nopales. Great care must be taken when handling and preparing either the fruit or pads, since both have glochids.
Let me know if you have questions.
Click here for previous LSU AgCenter's Weekly Messages
Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson is an Extension Agent with the LSU AgCenter, with horticulture responsibilities in Washington and Tangipahoa Parishes. Contact Mary Helen at mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu or 985-277-1850 (Hammond) or 985-839-7855 (Franklinton).
Sarah Blackmon, age 39 and of Slidell, has been charged by the Slidell Police Department in the death of 25 year-old Theresa Zar, who was found deceased last week inside of her jail cell. A preliminary investigation has determined that she likely died of a narcotics overdose.
Blackmon, who was arrested earlier last week for unrelated charges, reportedly admitted to detectives that she smuggled narcotics into the Slidell City Jail. Despite being thoroughly searched, Blackmon also reportedly admitted that she shoved the narcotics (suspected fentanyl) deep inside her vaginal cavity, making it nearly impossible to be detected. At some point, Blackmon provided Zar the narcotics, who then subsequently died from a suspected overdose. SPD further reports that Blackmon observed Zar in distress and failed to provide and/or seek assistance, which could have saved her life.
Blackmon has been charged with Second Degree Murder, Introducing Contraband into a Penal Institution and Failure to Seek Assistance. The Louisiana Second Degree Murder law states that anyone who unlawfully distributes or dispenses a controlled dangerous substance, which is the direct cause of the death of the recipient who ingested or consumed the controlled dangerous substance, can be charged with Second Degree Murder.
An autopsy and toxicology test were performed by the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office. The final results of the toxicology tests could take several weeks.
Andrea Sandifer (age 39 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
Adam Thomas (age 37 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and No Tail Light on Bicycle. Bond set at $5000.00.
Benton Magee (age 40 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, and No Tail Light by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $6500.00.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Freeze warning for these highlighted areas tonight. The hours below freezing should be of short duration, around 3 to 4 hours for most.
Collin Sims, who served as First Assistant District Attorney and long-time Chief Criminal Assistant District Attorney under District Attorney Warren Montgomery, has announced his candidacy for District Attorney. Sims has been with the 22nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office since 2015 and is presently serving as interim District Attorney following the passing of District Attorney Warren Montgomery. Louisiana Supreme Court Justice William J. Crain presided over his swearing in on November 15, 2023.
“Warren’s passing was not only a devastating loss for his family and friends, but for our entire community. He was an honorable prosecutor and dedicated public servant who led this office with integrity,” said Sims. “I’m running to build on his legacy of honest public service and to protect our community. Gone are the corruptive ways of the past and we can’t go backwards. I’ve spent my entire professional career fighting for others and prosecuting dangerous violent criminals in order to make our community a better and safer place to live. With the support of the voters, I will continue to lead this office to do exactly that.”
Sims has spent more than 17 years as a career felony criminal prosecutor specializing in complex jury trial presentations, investigations and prosecuting violent gangs, murder, rape, organized drug trafficking, money laundering, fraud, child exploitation, racketeering (RICO) and public corruption. Before working in the 22nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office, Sims worked as State Criminal Prosecutor as an Assistant District Attorney in Orleans Parish and then nine years as a Federal Criminal Prosecutor, serving as an Assistant United States Attorney and Special Assistant United States Attorney in the Eastern and Western Districts of Louisiana. During his extensive career, Sims has received many accolades for his professional accomplishments. Most notably, Sims received the FBI Director’s Award for National Outstanding Criminal Investigation of the Year, the DEA Gulf Coast HIDTA Financial Case of the Year, the Department of Homeland Security – Service Achievement Recognition, United States Secret Service - Certificate of Appreciation - Superior Contribution and has twice received the Metropolitan Crime Commission Award for Excellence in Law Enforcement.
Sims and his wife of 18 years, Elizabeth, live in Madisonville where they are raising their three children. He is a graduate of St. Paul’s High School, Mississippi College, and Loyola University New Orleans College of Law. He and his family attend St. Anselm Church. He is the current President of the 22nd Judicial District Bar Association and serves on the board for the North Shore Court Foundation, the Children’s Advocacy Center - Hope House, Louisiana District Attorney’s Association ADA Board of Directors, Safe Haven Advisory Board, Children’s Museum of St. Tammany Advisory Board and is a graduate of Leadership St. Tammany and this year's Alumni of the Year.
The special election for 22nd Judicial District Attorney is expected to take place on March 23, 2024.
Ryan Rodriguez (age 34 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) and Switched License Plates by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $3000.00.
Henry Miller (age 43 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Home Invasion. No bond set at this time.
Reno Miley (age 25 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Saturday (November 25, 2023) night, shortly before 10:00 p.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a single-vehicle fatal crash on LA Hwy 1058 near LA Hwy 1059 in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 44-year-old Mervin Briggs of Kentwood.
The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as Briggs was northbound on LA Hwy 1058 in a 2015 Ram 3500. For reasons still under investigation, Briggs lost control of the Ram, traveled off the roadway, and impacted a tree.
Briggs was unrestrained and sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash. Briggs was pronounced deceased on the scene. As part of the ongoing investigation, a toxicology sample was obtained from Briggs for analysis.
Rebekah Hochstedler (age 31 with Monticello, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Improper
Turn/Accident, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Ernest Jones (age 48 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Cruelty to Infirm and Disturbing the Peace/Violent & Tumultuous Manner by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Robert Bell (age 18 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Trespass, Simple Burglary, and Cruelty to a Juvenile(s) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Deborah Stockstill (age 19 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Trespass and Resisting an Officer (3 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
James Tate (age 40 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Convicted Felon in
Possession of Firearm and Possession of Marijuana. Bond set at $25000.00.
Amanda Whitten (age 35 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Marijuana, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Marijuana. Bond set at $5000.00.
Anthony Green (age 40 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $30000.00.
Kelsey Magee (age 31 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Simple Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $1500.00.
Christopher Bangs (age 33 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $10000.00.
Shane Barber (age 37 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation. Released on $5000.00 bond.
^^^All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty^^^
On November 17, 2023, following the passing of District Attorney Warren Montgomery, First Assistant District Attorney and long-time Chief Criminal Assistant District Attorney J. Collin Sims, was sworn in as Interim District Attorney of the 22nd Judicial District. Louisiana Supreme Court Justice William J. Crain presided over the swearing in.
Mr. Sims is from Mandeville, Louisiana and for more than 17 years, he has served as criminal prosecutor beginning as an Assistant District Attorney in Orleans Parish in 2006. In 2008, he accepted a position with the United States Attorney’s Office becoming one of the youngest Assistant United States Attorneys in the country. He spent the next 7 years as a federal criminal prosecutor assigned as an Assistant United States Attorney in the Western District of Louisiana and then in the Eastern District of Louisiana. In January of 2015, he accepted the position as Chief of the Criminal Division for the 22nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office for District Attorney Warren Montgomery to serve St. Tammany and Washington Parishes. Mr. Sims remained cross designated as a Special Assistant United States Attorney for two additional years ending in January of 2017. During his time as a Federal and State Prosecutor Mr. Sims has specialized in investigating and prosecuting violent gangs, murders, rapists, criminal enterprises engaged in organized drug trafficking and money laundering, Racketeering (RICO), child exploitation and public corruption.
In deference to the honor of Mr. Montgomery and his family, release of this announcement was temporarily delayed.
Read his biography below
The Bogalusa Council met Tuesday (November 21, 2023) evening. Following recognition of recent additions to the Police Department, a great presentation on “Naloxone Saves Lives” by Rhonda Gunnell and Rusty Fornea of the ADAPT organization, the Bogalusa Council approved three Resolutions, introduced one ordinance, and approved one Ordinance.
However, a second Ordinance that was on the Agenda for Public Hearing and a vote did not receive a motion and failed. The ordinance read as follows: “AN ORDINANCE authorizing Tyrin Truong, individually and as Mayor of the City of Bogalusa, the City of Bogalusa, and the Bogalusa City Council to pay judgement rendered against Tyrin Truong, individually and as Mayor of the City of Bogalusa and the City of Bogalusa to the Corner Smokehouse LLC and Bryan V. Genco individually and doing business as B&C ATM’S.” Click here to read more about the suit
The failure of the second ordinance prompted the Mayor to respond (beginning at 42:40 into the video). He stated he was disappointed, indicated that he would have to personally pay the judgment, and said “open your pocketbooks” while promising that he would be filing public records requests against each of the Council Members. Following his remarks, the Mayor left the meeting.
Pokey, Spikey Plants in Louisiana, Part 1: Yuccas and an Agave
It was just this year that I learned that some yucca plants are indigenous to Louisiana. I suppose I had never thought much about them and just didn’t think they looked like Louisiana natives. They look like they belong in a desert, which our area is not, despite this year’s lack of rainfall. That lesson inspired me to write about yuccas and other Louisiana natives that are a bit prickly.
A handful of the many existing Yucca species are considered native to Louisiana. These include Spanish-bayonet (Yucca aloifolia, AKA aloe yucca), Spanish-dagger (Y. gloriosa, AKA moundlily yucca), Adam’s needle (Y. filamentosa, AKA bear-grass or spoonleaf yucca), and Gulf Coast yucca (Y. louisianensis). Gulf Coast yucca is considered by some to be Y. flaccida (weak-leaf yucca) rather than a separate species.
These yuccas share a number of things in common. They’re evergreen; have long, narrow leaves that come to a point at the tip; and tend to grow on dry, sandy, sunny sites. They produce clusters of white or off-white, bell-shaped flowers on stalks that extend above the leaves. Yucca flowers are often or exclusively pollinated by yucca moths in the insect family Prodoxidae.
Spanish-bayonet and Spanish-dagger both have upright habits, often growing to approximately 4 and 6 feet in height, respectively, although they can get much taller. They have spines on their leaf tips, though those of Spanish-dagger are not as sharp. Spanish-bayonet has very small but sharp teeth (serrations) along its leaf margins, while Spanish-dagger does not. The leaves of Spanish-dagger are a little less rigid than those of Spanish-bayonet.
While Spanish bayonet and Spanish dagger have upright growth habits, the leaves of Adam’s needle and Gulf Coast yucca remain close to the ground. Both can have threads along the leaf margins, although it appears that these occur more consistently on Adam’s needle than Gulf Coast yucca. Leaves of Adam’s needle are stiff, while those of Gulf Coast yucca tend to bend. ‘Color Guard’ is a cultivar of Adam’s needle that has variegated leaves.
The succulent plants in the Agave genus are close relatives of yuccas. Louisiana is at the edge of the American century plant’s (Agave americana) native range, which extends towards the southwest and into Mexico. This plant doesn’t necessarily bloom exactly at the 100-year mark – it’s often much earlier – but the parent plant does die after it flowers. However, it typically produces small plants near its base before it dies. While many yuccas have spines at the tips of the leaves, American century plant has spines along the margins of the leaves, also. The vegetative part of this plant grows to approximately 6 feet tall and wide.
Let me know if you have questions.
Click here for previous LSU AgCenter's Weekly Messages
Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson is an Extension Agent with the LSU AgCenter, with horticulture responsibilities in Washington and Tangipahoa Parishes. Contact Mary Helen at mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu or 985-277-1850 (Hammond) or 985-839-7855 (Franklinton).
Janna Rollins (age 35 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Battery and Simple Battery. No bond set at this time.
Kasey Woodard (age 32 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
Jason Bell (age 40 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling, Contempt of Court, and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Blandon Rowell (age 37 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Trespass, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Drug Free Zone Violation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $3500.00.
Jacob Jewell (age 35 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Heroin, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Contempt of Court. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Sheriff Randy "Country" Seal of the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office (WPSO) had the privilege of
presenting the prestigious Life Saving Award to two courageous individuals, Sergeant Larry "Trey" Johnson and Officer Jonathan Leche, in recognition of their extraordinary acts of heroism. Sergeant John O'Hern, who played a pivotal role in the rescue, will be presented with his Life Saving Award at a later date due to his enrollment in a training program.
The heroic actions of WPSO Sergeant John O'Hern, FPD Officer Johnathan Leche, and FPD Sergeant Larry Johnson cannot be overstated. They saved the lives of two individuals who faced imminent danger in the most challenging circumstances. Their selflessness and courage are nothing short of inspiring, reminding us all of the true essence of public service.
On the evening of September 13, 2023, a heart-pounding incident unfolded near the intersection of Highway 10 and Highway 25. Sergeant O'Hern responded to a distressing call reporting an automobile accident with injuries. Arriving at the scene, he was met with a vehicle overturned and partially submerged in water, its occupants trapped inside. Without hesitation, Sergeant O'Hern initiated his rescue efforts, displaying dedication to public safety.
Realizing the severity of the situation and the inaccessibility of the victims from the front door, officers from the Franklinton Police Department, including Officer Johnathan Leche and Sergeant Larry Johnson, arrived to offer their assistance. Together, they faced the daunting task of freeing the occupants from the overturned vehicle.
The officers soon realized that the front door was not an option, compelling them to take drastic measures. Working seamlessly as a team, they managed to lift the vehicle just enough for Officer Leche to enter and successfully extract the two individuals from the back seat. With their remarkable teamwork, the victims were safely brought to shore.
During this intense and selfless rescue operation, Officer Leche sustained a laceration to his hand, requiring immediate medical attention and stitches. Despite his injury, his dedication to saving lives remained priority, exemplifying the commitment of our local law enforcement officers.
Sheriff Seal expresses his deep appreciation for the heroic actions of Sergeant Larry "Trey" Johnson and Officer Jonathan Leche. He recognizes the exceptional courage and dedication they demonstrated during the life-saving operation.
The Washington Parish community is grateful to have such dedicated and fearless individuals serving and protecting our citizens.
Joshua Brumfield (age 31 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Cruelty to a Juvenile(s), Simple Battery (2 counts), and Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5000.00 bond.
Larry Smith (age 34 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation and Parole Hold. Released November 20, 2023.
Laderrick Payne (age 43 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked In From Court
Kaid Elliott (age 19 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked In For Court
Roy Burton (age not listed with Franklinton, La. address) was booked In For Court
Steven Glover (age 42 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court and Failure to Appear. No bond set at this time.
Aimee Galloway (age 49 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Bond Surrender, Contempt of Court, and Failure to Appear. Bond set at $309.50.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
The Bogalusa City Council will meet at 5:30 PM on November 21, 2023 at City Hall. The meeting will
be streamed live at https://www.facebook.com/mthermonwebtv
The Agenda includes the following:
GUEST SPEAKER: Rhonda Gunnell: Adapt: Naloxone Saves Lives.
ADOPTIONS OF RESOLUTIONS
INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES
PUBLIC HEARINGS & ADOPTION OF ORDINANCES
Public Participation
Administrative Remarks
Other Council Discussion
Announcements: Next Council Meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at 5:30 P.M.
The Washington Parish Council meets at 6:00 PM on November 20, 2023 at the Washington Parish Courthouse in Franklinton. The meeting will be streamed live at https://www.facebook.com/mthermonwebtv.
The Agenda includes the following:
Introduction of Ordinance No. 23-732 – An ordinance to adopt the 2024 Annual Operating Budget and the Capital Outlay Budget for the Washington Parish Government.
Adopt Resolution No. 23-1254 - A resolution by the Washington Parish Council to engage Kushner LaGraize, L.L.C. to perform audit services for the Washington Parish Government for the year ending December 31, 2023
Adopt Resolution No. 23-1255 – A resolution of appointment for the Washington Parish Fire Protection District No. 9, Board of Directors.
Adopt Resolution No. 23-1256 - A resolution of appointment for Gas Utility District No. 1., Board of Directors.
Adopt Resolution No. 23-1257 - A resolution of appointment for Bogue Lusa Water Works District, Board of Directors.
Adopt Resolution No. 23-1258 - A resolution of appointment for Varnado Water Works District, Board of Directors.
Public Participation
President’s Report
Council Discussion
Michael Jenkins (age 41 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Disturbing the Peace/Loud & Abusive Language by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Darryl Powell (age 50 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Indecent Behavior With Juvenile(s) by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Samantha Creel (age 33 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Lasha Hopper (age 33 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment and Domestic Abuse Battery by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Keven Johnson (age 47 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Speeding 31-40 Over Limit, Resisting by Flight/Aggravated Flight, and Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
With 3377 of 3929 precincts reporting as of press time, the following results are projected.
Secretary of State - Nancy Landry will be elected
Attorney General - "Liz" Baker Murrill will be elected
Treasurer - John Fleming will be elected
CA No. 1 - PASSED (Provides relative to timing of gubernatorial action on a bill and related matters) - 62 % voted YES and 38% voted No.
CA No. 2 – PASSED (Repeals certain funds in the state treasury) - 55 % voted YES and 45% voted No.
CA No. 3 - PASSED (Provides for an ad valorem tax exemption for certain first responders) - 53 % voted YES and 47% voted No.
CA No. 4 - FAILED (Provides relative to the use of monies in the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund) - 44 % voted YES and 56% voted No.
With all precincts reporting, unofficial results from the Secretary of State's Office reflect that John Wyble, Jason Smith, Ryan Seal, and Reginald McMasters were successful in their respective races. More details are as follows:
State Representative (75th Representative District)
Washington Parish Sheriff
Washington Parish President
Parish Council Member (District 6)
Fire Protection Dist. No. 9 Prop. No. 1 of 2 -- 16.26 Mills Continuation - BOC - 10 Yrs.
62 % voted YES and 38% voted No.
Fire Protection Dist. No. 9 Prop. No. 2 of 2 -- 4.16 Mills Continuation - BOC - 10 Yrs.
62 % voted YES and 38% voted No.
To get more detailed information on these and other races, click here
By Executive Order 08-23 signed by Washington Parish President Richard N. Thomas, Jr., the Burn Ban has been lifted, effective November 17, 2023. In the Order, Thomas noted that drought conditions have been alleviated in Washington Parish.
Notice of the Order included the following: “Thank you for your cooperation in complying with the burn ban this summer during the drought and weather conditions.”
Residents are reminded of the usual open burning laws regulated by LDEQ which include NOT burning household trash. LDEQ's open burning regulations can be found here
Suggestions Shared from the Washington Parish School System
⛺️ Indoor Camping - Pull out the blankets and build a fort, make smores in the oven, tell spooky stories, and sing campfire songs.
π¨π³ Cooking Class - This is a no-brainer for Thanksgiving, right? Make it fun by getting the entire family involved. Teach those old family recipes to the next generation to ensure that they stay in the family for years to come.
π¨ Thanksgiving Crafts - Go old-school and create good ole hand turkeys!
π Explore nature - Even in the south, leaves are starting to change and the world outside is starting to look a little different. Go for a hike or a walk and explore the world outside.
π A random act of kindness - Deliver baked goods to your neighbor, donate to a food drive, or write letters to those you are thankful for.
How ever you decide to spend your break, do it with gratitude!
Ronald Pilkington (age 41 with Memphis, Tn. address) was booked on the charges of Prohibited Acts/Schedule II, No Turn Signals, Proper Equipment Required on Vehicles, Resisting by Flight/Aggravated Flight, Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot, and Driving Under Suspension by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond set at $10000.00.
Teddie Williams (age 43 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Clayton Wilson (age 64 with Baton Rouge, La. address) was booked In For Court
Marris Jefferson (age 43 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving Left of Center/Wrong Side of Hwy, No Turn Signals, Driving While Intoxicated (3rd Offense), Open Container in Vehicle, Bond Surrender, and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $15000.00.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***